One Week in Portugal – Best 7 Days Portugal Itinerary
So you’re planning to spend one week in Portugal and want to make the most out of this trip. You’re not sure what to see and how much time should you allocate for each landmark.
I will share with you in this one week Portugal itinerary the most important places to visit in Portugal and tips to make your vacation much enjoyable.
It’s important to mention that spending seven days in Portugal will not check all tourist attractions of this amazing country.
In this one week itinerary in Portugal you will find the most popular landmarks which will give you a taste of this country and spark the interest to come again.
That being said, let’s begin our one week itinerary in Portugal.
🗓️ Day 0: Arrive in Lisbon
Depending on your flight, you might have time for a walk on the beautiful streets of Lisbon. If not, get some rest and prepare for the first full day in Portugal.
Where to stay in Lisbon? 🛌
When we visited Portugal we stayed at a friend’s house near the city, but quite close to Lisbon. We traveled by car to Pontinha station where’s a big parking lot and took public transport from there to our objectives. Lisbon has a very good public transport system including metro, busses, trams, trains and funiculars.
If you don’t have friends living in Portugal, you can find great accommodations in Lisbon. We recommend Chiado or Baixa districts as the best central home base location to explore the city.
🗓️ Day 1: Sintra
Sintra is one of the most iconic landmarks in Portugal, full of palaces combining romantic, gothic & renaissance styles. It’s also part of UNESCO World Heritage.
I suggest allocating a full day for Sintra. You won’t see everything, but you can check the main objectives and get a good feeling of this unique place.
How to get to Sintra? 👣
Sintra is about 30 minutes of driving from Lisbon. If you’re going there by car, I suggest to park it at the base of the hill, as close as possible to Quinta da Regaleira. From here, you can take the bus or a Tuk Tuk to Pena palace on top of the hill.
There is also a free parking lot for your car, but this fills up very quickly so I suggest arriving early in the morning.
You can also reach Sintra by train in around 40-50 minutes. From the train station, you can take bus 434 up to the top of the hill or just walk if you have time and enjoy the steep climb.
Quinta da Regaleira 📍
Built in the late 1800s, it combines architecture elements from Roman, Gothic, Renaissance and Manueline styles. It’s also known as “The Palace of Monteiro the Millionaire”, which is based on the nickname of its best known former owner, António Augusto Carvalho Monteiro.
You can visit the interior of the castle and walk in the gardens of the palace where you can see the chapel, a beautiful waterfall and some interesting underground tunnels connecting the main buildings.
Palacio National da Pena 📍
Probably one of the most iconic castles in the country, the beautiful colors stand out on top of the hill in Sintra Mountains and constitutes one of the major expressions of Romancism in the 19th-century.
The castle was used as a summer residence for royal families. The Pena Park is a wide forest surrounding Pena Palace. With it’s labyrinthic paths and roads, you can enjoy a walk in the garden and admire the various trees and vegetation brought from different parts of the world.
Other objectives near Sintra (depending on your available time & personal preference):
Castle of the Moors 📍
A medieval hilltop castle built in the 8th and 9th centuries, Castle of the Moors offers a panoramic view of the municipality of Sintra. Seen from Pena Palace, it stands out as an important landmark of this area.
🗓️ Day 2: Nazare, arrive in Porto
Next day is fully dedicated to Nazare region, situated to the north of Lisbon. It’s one of the most popular seaside resorts in the Silver Coast.
How to get to Nazare? 👣
Getting from Lisbon to Nazare takes about one hour and a half by car. You can get the bus which will take you close to the attractions. Train is also an option, but since there is no direct train from Lisbon to Nazare, you’ll have to take also a taxi to reach your destination.
Praia da Nazare 📍
One of the most popular beaches in the region, Praia da Nazare is full of traditional canvas shelters and fishing boats in the summer. Waves are strong, making it perfect for surfing and paddleboarding.
The blend between sand, water and the abrupt cliff offers a spectacular view with vivid colors.
Forte de Sao Miguel Arcanjo 📍
First built in 1577 as a fort, than used as a lighthouse, Forte de Sao Miguel became a popular tourist attraction, paying tribute to surfers in Nazare. It’s opened as a museum which you can visit.
Praia do Norte 📍
Best known as the place where you can find the biggest waves in Europe, Praia do Norte is a popular place for surfers. You can see this before even reaching the beach. There is an entrance gate stating that and a deer-headed statue as a reminder of the so-called Legend of Nazaré.
Mosteiro da Batalha 📍
On the way to Porto you can make a stop. About 30 minutes drive from Nazare, Mosteiro da Batalha was built to celebrate the victory of the Portuguese over the Castilians in 1385. This two century project combines Gothic and Manueline styles, making Mosteiro da Batalha one of the most iconic landmarks in the center of Portugal.
I recommend also visiting the interior of this UNESCO heritage where you can find the tomb of King João I and an eternal flame guarded by sentinels.
Where to sleep in Porto? 🛌
For our stay in Porto we booked an Airbnb house in Vila Nova de Gaia district. We were just a few minutes of walking from a bridge that connects with Porto. I highly recommend this location for staying; it’s slightly cheaper than other accommodations in Porto and, as a bonus, you get a spectacular view of Porto from this place.
🗓️ Day 3: Porto
We only had one day and one evening to visit Porto. I think it’s enough to see the main attractions of the city, but of course if you stay more, there are many things to do. Porto has it’s unique vibe.
Luis I Bridge 📍
Spanning over River Douro, it connects Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia city in Porto District. Built in 1886, this double-deck bridge offers an iconic view over the river, especially at night. You can walk on bridge, but be careful as the tram is also crossing on the upper deck.
Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar 📍
Located on Vila Nova de Gaia district, Monastery of Serra do Pilar is representative by it’s circular shape as well as the positioning which also had an important military role during wars. This can be seen today by the military barracks which remained on the site.
Part of UNESCO heritage, the monastery offers a great viewpoint over Luis I Bridge and the historic center of Porto.
Porto Cathedral 📍
Located in the historical center, Porto Cathedral is one of the oldest city monuments in the city, dating from 12th century when the construction began. Originally built with Romanesque architecture, during the centuries it has been altered with elements from Baroque style.
Clérigos Church and Tower 📍
The Clérigos Church is a baroque style 18th century church which became a symbol of the city. With a 75 meters tall bell tower, it stands out among the buildings in the city. You can get up to the tower which will offer a spectacular view over Porto.
Câmara Municipal do Porto 📍
Although not that old, being finalized in 1955, the building with a 70 meter clock tower is a symbol of the city. You can have a walk on the square in front of the building which is a great spot for taking photos.
Chapel of Souls 📍
Also being among the oldest ones in the city, Chapel of Souls (also known as Capela das Almas) is a relatively small church compared to others, but stands out through it’s facade fully covered with blue and white ceramic tiles. The interior in neoclassical style is also unique.
It’s conveniently situated right on the main shopping street in Porto and you can visit the church for free.
Igreja do Carmo & Igreja dos Carmelitas 📍
Two churches standing side by side and separated by a narrow one meter building, it was meant to keep the monks and the nuns separated. One building dates from 17th century while the other dates from 18th century.
It was originally built for the Carmelite order of the Roman Catholic Church and used as a convent. Combining baroque and neoclassical styles with a facade illustrating the Carmelite order history, it’s definitely a place you shouldn’t miss.
Lisbon Square Porto 📍
Located near Clérigos Tower, Praca de Lisboa is a city square with a modern design. It consist of a building that on top has a green roof and olive trees, similar to a park. On the ground floor there are commercial spaces and it also has a car parking on the lowest floor.
Where and what to eat in Porto? 🍽️
Francesinha 🍽️
We tried only one restaurant in Porto as we didn’t stay for long. We went to Clérigos Cervejaria near Clérigos Tower and tried the traditional Francesinha (Little Frenchie) which is the pride of Porto. The waiter even explained to us the history of the dish which comes from a Portuguese man named Daniel David da Silva. After spending some time in France, he returned home in the 1950s with the intention to bring back the French croque-monsieur. Da Silva adapted the recipe to Portuguese tastes and created the Francesinha which became a signature dish of Porto.
There is no standard recipe for the sandwich which is typically made with ham, Portuguese sausage, steak and served with french fries, but since we are vegetarian, we tried the version without meat along with other tasty dishes.
Mercado do Bolhão 🍽️
If you want to try some local food, Mercado do Bolhão is the place you should never miss. Dating back from 1839, you can find here fresh vegetables, fruits, meat, fish and flowers. There are also a few small restaurants with homemade meals.
🗓️ Day 4: Cascais
Cascais is the most popular sea side area in Portugal. Located at around 31 km (19 miles) from Lisbon, is full of calm beaches and wild breathtaking landscapes. It’s the place where the old European royalty used to spend their summer.
Boca do Inferno 📍
This is one of the most famous chasm in Portugal. It was created by very powerful waves (expecially in winter) which pounded the cliff repeatedly. This created a cave inside the rock with an archway on the seaside.
You can see the cave from above or follow a pathway down which will give you a view from the ocean side where you can see better the rock eroding phenomenon.
Cabo da Roca 📍
It’s the cape that forms the most westernmost point of mainland Europe. There is a lighthouse here and a monument which you can use as a certificate in your photo that you’ve been there.
The weather is unpredictable and winds are very strong. Also the cliff is very abrupt, so be careful and do not pass the fence.
Praia da Ursa 📍
Located north from Cabo da Roca, it’s one of the most beautiful wild beaches in Portugal. You have to hike downwards on a steep trail to reach it.
The view is amazing from the top as well as from the beach. Wild rocks, soft sand and big waves form a dream landscape. It’s not recommended to swim here because of the powerful waves and strong currents.
🗓️ Day 5 & 6: Lisbon
We spend the next days until the end of our journey in Lisbon. The city is fascinating, there are so many things to see and do, we felt there was not enough time for everything. I think you can spend a whole week just to see Lisbon, but if you only have a few days, here’s what you can see:
Panoramico de Monsanto 📍
Once an exclusive restaurant situated in the outskirts of Lisbon, Panoramico de Monsanto is now an abandoned building. Because of it’s high location, it offers a great viewpoint over the city. You can also enjoy the urban graffiti art on it’s walls.
Santuario de Cristo Rei & Ponte 25 de Abril 📍
Located in Almada after crossing 25th April bridge, The Sanctuary of Christ the King is a catholic monument dedicated to Sacred Heart of Jesus Christ. It overlooks Lisbon and offers a great view of the city. You can go up to enjoy the panorama or have a walk in the olive tree garden.
The Pink Street 📍
Once a shady place where sailors, criminals and streetwalkers were hanging around, the municipality painted the street with pink color in 2013 in an attempt to change the neighborhood reputation.
It’s a great spot for pictures, but try to go in the early hours as the place can be quite crowded.
Elevador da Bica 📍
The Bica Funicular (or Ascensor da Bica in portuguese) is a tram that connects Largo do Calhariz to Rua de São Paulo. The lift began operating in 1892 and it’s composed of two cars linked by a cable that ascend and descend simultaneously.
It’s the most photographed funicular in Lisbon as it offers a great perspective from the top of the hill with the river in background.
Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara 📍
Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara is a garden with the most iconic panoramic view over Lisbon. You can find a map made of tiles which marks the most important buildings in the city.
Have a walk in the garden and take some moments to enjoy the view while sitting on a bench.
Elevador de Santa Justa 📍
Another iconic elevator dating from 19th century is Elevator de Santa Justa. It was an important component of the public transport over one of the steepest hills in Lisbon, ascending up to 45 meters from lower streets of the Baixa to the higher Largo do Carmo.
Today it’s primary a tourist attraction and you should expect long queues to ride to the top.
Castelo de S. Jorge 📍
Saint George’s Castle is an important historical place, the oldest fortifications on the site dating from as early as 2nd century BC. The hill where the castle is standing had an important role in the history of Lisbon, being a strategic point in the battles with Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans and Moors.
The admissions to the castle is a bit expensive, but totally worth it. You can visit castle’s battlements, a museum and learn about it’s history while also enjoying the view over Lisbon city.
Lisbon Cathedral 📍
Also known as Sé de Lisboa, Lisbon Cathedral dates from 12th century and is one of the most important churches in the city. Mainly build with Romanesque style, it has two bell towers which gives the appearance of a fortress. It has been renovated several times due to earthquakes.
It’s also a great spot for photos, especially if you catch the tram passing in front of the church.
Miradouro de Santa Luzia 📍
Miradouro de Santa Luzia is part of Santa Luzia church and one of the best viewpoints over Alfama and the Tagus River. With it’s romantic style, it offers a great spot for pictures.
You can relax on a bench and enjoy the view while reading a book or have a short walk in the garden with beautiful flowers.
Praça do Comércio 📍
Known today as Praça do Comércio (Commerce Plaza), this is one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. Previously named Terreiro do Paço (Royal Yard), it has been completely rebuild after the great 1755 Lisbon earthquake.
The harbour-facing plaza was the entry point to Lisbon for sailors who could enjoy the view from their vessels while approaching the shore.
Carmo Convent (Museu Arqueológico do Carmo) 📍
The Convent of Our Lady of Mount Carmel is a former catholic church which was ruined by the earthquake in 1755 and never rebuild. The roof collapsed, but gothic arches are still standing. Today is used as an archeological museum where you can learn the convent history and see a few mummies from Egypt and Peru.
It’s definitely worth to visit this important piece of history.
Parque Eduardo VII 📍
Originally known as Parque da Liberdade, it was renamed after King Edward VII of the United Kingdom who visited Portugal in 1903 to strengthen the relationship between the two countries.
The park occupies quite a large area and offers a unique viewpoint with it’s trimmed garden.
Torre de Belem 📍
Belém Tower was build in 16th century during the Portuguese Renaissance and was used as a gateway to the city of Lisbon by Portuguese explorers as well as a defense point against possible invasions from the Tagus River. It also protected Jeronimos Monastery which was one of the strategic points to invade the city.
You can visit the tower for a small entrance fee for just take photos from the outside.
Monasterio dos Jeronimos 📍
Jerónimos Monastery is a former monastery of the Order of Saint Jerome and one of the most important places to visit in Lisbon. It replaced the church which formerly existed in the same place where Vasco da Gama spent the night in prayer there before departing on the expedition to India in 1497. It took 100 years to build Jerónimos Monastery which is now an UNESCO site.
You can visit the main two objectives, the cloister and The Church of Santa Maria where you can find the tomb of Vasco de Gama and of Luís de Camões, a Portugese poet and writer.
Rosa dos Ventos 📍
The square in front of the Discoveries Monument depicts an enormous compass in the honor of the Portuguese navigators from old times. You can see the routes and the great discoveries which contributed to Portugal’s golden age of history.
Beware the place can be very crowded, it’s best to visit it early in the morning.
Padrão dos Descobrimentos 📍
Located along Tagus river where ships departed to explore and trade with India and Orient, The Monument of the Discoveries celebrates the Portuguese Age of Discovery between 15th and 16th centuries.
It was initially created as a temporary construction, part of Portuguese World Exhibition in 1940, but demolished three years later. It was reconstructed in 1960 in a larger form to mark 500 years since the death of Henry the Navigator and stands until today as a tribute to the great explorers.
🗓️ Day 7: Lisbon, departure ✈️
Depending on the time of departure, you might have another day to visit Lisbon. I recommend to try local food or maybe visit some traditional markets for shopping.
Where and what to eat in Lisbon? 🍽️
There are many places where you can eat great food in Lisbon. Here are some recommendations of places to eat in Lisbon that we think you shouldn’t miss:
Pastéis de Belém 🍽️
This pastry has an unique story. Pastéis de nata were created before 18th century by the monks at Jerónimos Monastery. After the Liberal Revolution from 1820 and the dissolution of religious orders, many convents and monasteries were impending closure. The monks started to sell pastéis de nata at a sugar refinery near the monastery to bring in some revenue. In 1834 Jerónimos Monastery was closed and the recipe sold to the sugar refinery. The owners opened Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém in 1837 and continue to sell the product to this day following the ancient secret recipe from the monastery.
I can tell you, it tastes great! As the queue to the pastry can get quite long, I suggest buying more so you won’t have to wait again on the queue. You won’t regret it!
Timeout Market 🍽️
Time Out Market Lisbon is a food hall where you can find a variety of regional specialties. Several top Portuguese chefs have restaurants here.
It can be quite hard to find a place to eat, especially at lunch hours. If you are visiting with someone else, I suggest that one person gets the food while the other one finds a place to sit and hold it.
Other Things to See in Portugal 👀
As much as we wanted, we didn’t visit all the places we initially planned to see. I leave below some information about other places you can include in your Portugal itinerary if you have enough time.
Lagos 📍
Lagos is one of the best towns to see in the Algarve region, full of natural beauty as well as magnificent city. It’s about 3 hours drive from Lisbon, so don’t miss it if you have the chance.
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